We really enjoyed Batman: Arkham VR when that launched back in 2017, so we were eager to see how Batman: Arkham Shadow would turn out. As with that Arkham VR, the game takes players deep into the world of Gotham, capitalizing on the immersive capabilities of VR to deliver a unique experience for Batman fans. Developed by Camouflaj and published by Oculus Studios, the game drops players right into the middle of a city under siege, weaving an original narrative centered around a new villain, the Rat King, who instigates chaos on the Fourth of July. Gotham’s iconic and familiar blend of grit and tension is rendered vividly in VR, creating an atmosphere that’s simultaneously unsettling and thrilling as players explore familiar, yet twisted, streets of Gotham.
The storyline provides a fresh twist by introducing classic characters at early points in their lives, with Dr. Quinzel and Dr. Crane appearing in unexpected roles, well before they evolve into Harley Quinn and Scarecrow. This angle not only adds depth to the game but also offers fans a deeper connection to Gotham’s lore. Ratcatcher, Jim Gordon, and Harvey Dent make appearances as well, creating a cast of allies and adversaries that give life to the otherwise dark, empty feeling of Gotham’s streets. The threat of the Rat King looms over the experience, and players are kept on edge as they try to thwart his plan, known ominously as his “Day of Wrath”.
Combat in Batman: Arkham Shadow is one of the game’s standout features, thanks to mechanics specifically designed for VR. Fans of the Arkham series will find familiar gadgets and intense, close-up encounters that feel punchy and visceral in the VR environment. Mechanics like blocking, dodging, and deploying gadgets are handled with VR-specific gestures that elevate immersion. However, the combat can sometimes feel repetitive as certain animations and enemy types recur, slightly diminishing the excitement of each new encounter.
Where Arkham Shadow shines in immersion, it stumbles somewhat with the control scheme. While the VR experience adds a level of realism and excitement, the learning curve in some areas feels steep, especially when navigating intricate environments or executing combat maneuvers under pressure. The tactile controls often require a precision that can feel demanding in intense situations, occasionally pulling players out of the experience if a movement doesn’t register as expected. It’s a minor setback that can be overlooked by those willing to embrace the full VR experience, but it may prove challenging for players looking for smoother, more accessible gameplay.
Visually, Batman: Arkham Shadow doesn’t disappoint, as the developers have carefully crafted the sights and sounds of Gotham to create a darkly atmospheric VR experience. Detailed textures, shadows, and lighting bring the city to life, with each setting – whether a shadowy alley or a decrepit building – enhancing the feeling of danger lurking around every corner. The audio design is equally impressive, with a foreboding soundtrack and chilling ambient noises that make Gotham feel alive and menacing. But although the graphics push the capabilities of the Meta Quest 3 hardware, there are occasional dips in visual fidelity that can momentarily break immersion. Still, this is one of the best showcases for your Quest 3(S) hardware you can get, and a showcase for where standalone VR might end up in a few years.
Overall, Batman: Arkham Shadow is a thrilling VR experience that takes a beloved franchise and returns it to the VR environment. The story provides a compelling new look at Gotham’s most infamous characters, while the game’s tactile combat and atmospheric visuals pull players deeper into Batman’s world. While the control scheme may challenge some players, especially newcomers to VR, the game’s faithful adaptation of the Arkham style and its immersive approach make it a worthwhile experience for fans and VR enthusiasts alike. For those ready to embrace its challenges, Batman: Arkham Shadow is a standout entry in the Arkham series that showcases the potential of VR for delivering rich, story-driven adventures.
Score: 8.5/10
Press Play Media 